Figurative language adds a descriptive element to text. The Shiloh book has several examples of figurative language, including similes and hyperbole. In this activity, students can display their understanding of figurative language by identifying the examples from the text and creating a literal or figurative portrayal of the language. Additional types of figurative language include metaphors, personification, and idioms.
| DESCRIPTION | EXAMPLE | |
|---|---|---|
| Simile | A comparison using 'like' or 'as' | “I’m happy as a flea on a dog.” |
| Hyperbole | Exaggeration or overstatement for humor or emphasis | “I feel like there’s a tank trunk sitting on my chest; can’t hardly breathe.” |
| Hyperbole | Exaggeration or overstatement for humor or emphasis | “He knows I’d rather swim a river full of crocodiles than face Judd Travers.” |
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Student Instructions
Create a storyboard that shows three examples of figurative language in Shiloh.
Turn figurative language learning into a fun, interactive game with a scavenger hunt! This activity helps students engage deeply with the text and builds teamwork skills.
List different figurative language types—like similes, metaphors, and hyperboles—and provide sample phrases. This gives students clear targets to search for in the text.
Form small groups or pairs and make sure each has a copy of the book. Working together encourages discussion and critical thinking.
Instruct students to hunt for examples in the story, writing down the quote, the page number, and the type of figurative language. This reinforces close reading skills.
Share findings on the board and ask groups to explain the meaning behind each example. This step builds comprehension and encourages students to think about why the author used figurative language.
Shiloh features several types of figurative language, including similes like “I’m happy as a flea on a dog” and hyperboles such as “I feel like there’s a tank trunk sitting on my chest; can’t hardly breathe.” These expressions add vivid imagery and emotion to the story.
To teach figurative language with Shiloh, have students identify similes, metaphors, and hyperboles in the text. Ask them to create storyboards illustrating each example, label the type of figurative language, and explain its meaning. This makes learning interactive and fun.
A simile compares two things using “like” or “as,” such as “I’m happy as a flea on a dog.” A hyperbole is an exaggerated statement, like “I feel like there’s a tank trunk sitting on my chest.” Both appear in Shiloh to create vivid imagery.
Figurative language in Shiloh helps readers connect emotionally with characters, adds humor, and makes descriptions more vivid. It allows students to explore creative writing and better understand the author’s message.
Effective activities include creating a storyboard with examples from the text, matching quotes to the type of figurative language, and group discussions. These approaches help students recognize and understand similes, hyperboles, and metaphors in Shiloh.